A beautiful butterfly, especially when fresh, with a jet black upperside ground colour with a velvety appearance. I saw very few in 2006 until late September when there was quite an influx of what I assume were migrants.

This northerly migration continued with exceptional numbers seen in the UK in October, no doubt assisted by the mild weather in the UK. In 2007 to 2011 there has been a very late influx in southern Var in early October, although in relatively small numbers.

observations

a hibernating female, quite battered but the best upperside photo I have as yet.

a male underside, showing the complex patterning. If it were rare, we would be gasping in admiration.